Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
30% cheaper
Stockton is 30% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $52,778 in Stockton.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $140,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Jersey City scores 105 while Stockton scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are higher than Stockton (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Stockton.
Amazon affiliate links